The 164th AS is the group's operational component and has had the C-130H assigned since 1991. The unit was formed as the 164th Fighter Squadron in June 1948 with P-51Ds and switched to F-51Hs in July 1949. The 164th was redesignated a Fighter-Bomber Squadron in November 1952 flying F-80Cs, and F-84Es from October 1954. The unit converted to the F-84F in September 1957 and became a Tactical Fighter Squadron in November 1958. The 164th was mobilized between October 1961 and August 1962, with the 179th TFG assigned in October 1962. The unit re-equipped with the F-100D in February 1972 and changed designation to a Tactical Airlift Squadron upon adopting the C-130B in January 1976.